For LSU alumna Annie Etzel, working as an established designer came on the coattails of graduation.
Graduating with a textiles, apparel design and merchandising degree in 2014, Etzel began her clothing line during her final semester. She said she went to one of her professors and asked if to begin an independent study.
“In the class, I created my brand, wrote a business plan and a marketing plan,” Etzel said. “This course really allowed me to understand and learn more about the business side of
having my brand, as well as connect me to fabric and production sources and network with other people in the industry.”
Etzel debuted her company, Annie E. Apparel, at the Southern Coalition of Fashion and Design during Southern Design Week Fall 2014. Now, more than a year later, she continues to live in Louisiana and makes everything locally.
She said she focuses on feminine, bohemian and glamorous clothing. Although several
collections have several inspirations, she said she keeps to the same aesthetic.
Her newest fall and winter collection was inspired by vintage chic, combining old decades with a new twist. Using a combination of 1920-1970 style, Etzel said she hopes to create something different from the rest.
While looking for new ideas this season, she said she stumbled upon a new look.
“I worked with a lot of faux fur this collection,” Etzel said. “I got my hands on some dreamy lavender Tissavel faux fur and made a faux fur coat. Once I made the coat, I couldn’t help but want to make more faux fur pieces.”
The designer continued with faux fur in stoles, detachable fur collars, headpieces and cuff sets. She said faux fur is a must-have this season because it can bring a simple outfit to a whole new level.
Etzel said another one of her favorite pieces of this season is her versatile infinity jumpsuit. It can be worn up to 30 different ways, making it as exceptional as what she stands for.
A philosophy behind Etzel’s brand has been “Clothing the Undefined,” and she said her brand continues to stand for this. The motto began when Etzel saw women are often described or defined with one word.
“You can be sweet, fun, clever, goofy, bold, sassy, strong: You can be a little bit of everything,” Etzel said. “My clothes are inspired by lots of different styles, they are not limited to be just one thing, just like the women that wear them. I like to say I am clothing the undefined women.”
While dressing her customers in undefined clothing, you can find Etzel at a few events and trunk shows around Louisiana. She most recently did a trunk show with the LSU Fashion Association and hosted a booth at the Mistletoe Market.
She wants to attend more markets and trunk shows this year, but her Annie E. Apparel designs can always be found online at her website.

Gallery • 6 Photos

Emily Brauner

Local desiger, Annie Etzel, had a booth at the MIstletoe Market on Nov. 15, 2015, for her line Annie E. and new winter and fall collection.